Every now and again, we’re reminded of just how fun driving can be. Simple, purpose-built cars are often the best way of getting this reminder. The Alfa Romeo 4C is one of those cars. Its light curb weight and moderate power means its power to weight ratio is sublime. Its sport exhaust is missing a muffler but possesses a seductive roar. Its manual steering communicates every ripple in the road. These types of vehicles don’t come around too often at an affordable price, but somehow, Alfa->ke1386 has done it.

In the video above, MotorTrend’s Carlos Lago takes the 4C out for track testing and spirited cruising long the Pacific Coast Highway. The 4C posted some pretty respectable numbers at the track, as 60 mph came in 4.1 seconds and the quarter mile happened in 12.7 seconds at 106.7 mph. It also held an impressive 0.94 g of lateral acceleration and stopping from 60 mph took a mere 97 feet. Those numbers come darn close to supercar->ke177 stats, especially considering the 4C’s starting price of just $55,195 and its 1.7-liter, turbocharged inline-four is only producing 237 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque.

Even more impressive is the 4C’s fun factor. Its loud exhaust and quick-shifting six-speed twin-clutch transmission make for a thrilling ride. Add to that its mid-mounted engine location and curb weight of only 2,437 pounds and you’ve got a recipe for perfection.

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